DANGER was staring me in the face—the same sign that Kayden sent in a photo during his tour of the city. My mind was consumed by a haze of lust and disbelief after what had just happened in his bedroom.

Kayden had had his mouth all over my body less than thirty minutes ago, and I didn’t want it to end. I couldn’t stop thinking about his rock-hard cock and the pleasure I felt from his mouth and large hands.

Kayden leaned against the wrought-iron fence separating the street from the streetcar platform, pulling me against his body, and my body complied with his not so subtle coaxing. My head lolled back and rested on his shoulder.

I couldn’t stop staring at the sign, even though I knew it wasn’t meant for me. Should I heed the warning? Kayden had already pushed me beyond my comfort zone within ten minutes of being in his presence. Am I out of my league with this man? My thoughts were interrupted when his lips brushed against my temple, and his thumb caressed my arm. The gesture was filled with love and adoration, and it took my breath away. I closed my eyes and became consumed in the feeling of his skin upon mine. I jumped when the streetcar whistle sounded to alert the waiting crowd of its nearness.

I turned my body, wrapped my arms around his neck, and stared into his eyes. I was mesmerized by the color and depth. The green center was trimmed in a brassy brown hue, resembling a turbulent ocean during a storm, and I was drowning in them.

“You told me your eyes were brown,” he said, “but they’re filled with gold and green flecks in the sunshine.”

“No one has ever noticed that about my eyes before.” I was in shock that he noticed the complexity in my eyes as I had with his.

“I want to know all of you…every spot on your body,” he said.

I swallowed hard, and my mouth became dry as the words flowed through my ears and permeated my thoughts. I got lost in the possibilities that his statement held.

“Come on, babe. The streetcar is here,” he said as he maneuvered my body toward the red and yellow streetcar.

The streetcar was crowded, but we found an open bench in the back. The wooden seats were small and caused every inch of our sides to touch. His hand rested on my knee as he turned his body to look out the window. As the car glided down the tracks, Kayden pointed out city landmarks and told me stories about the Big Easy. The street was lined with long and thin shotgun homes in all the colors of the rainbow. Beads leftover from Mardi Gras clung to the electrical lines like a jeweled necklace decorating Canal Street.

Kayden’s touch never broke from my body. He touched every inch of my uncovered flesh as the car shook and lurched to our final destination—there was electricity between us. The car stopped abruptly and brought me back to reality.

“This is us,” he said as he stood and held out his hand for me.

I rested my fingers in his palms as he helped me stand. He secured me under his arm as we started to walk down the busy street. The people of New Orleans were as colorful as the buildings.

“There’s Bourbon Street,” he said, pointing across the street.

My eyes followed his finger to a long, narrow street filled with people. I had heard about the decadence that can be found in New Orleans, but nothing prepared me for what awaited. My eyes grew wide as my feet touched the edge of Bourbon Street.

The street was lined with burlesque shows and clubs, and girls stood in the doorways dressed in thongs and pasties. Their bodies convulsed rhythmically up and down the doorway, trying to tantalize the crowd to attend the show inside, and everyone was vying for business.

Kayden squeezed my hand as he studied my face.

“The whole street isn’t like this. It changes to bars and restaurants before you enter the residential area. Hold my hand so you don’t get lost in the crowd,” he said. “Have you ever been in a strip club?”

“Not one with girls dancing, but I’ve gone to male ones.”

“We’re going to keep it that way,” he said.

Music streamed through invisible speakers filling the hot, humid air. Bodies were swaying with the beat as they meandered down the street. The brick facades were lined with black iron balconies packed to capacity. The strip clubs gave way to vibrant bars packed with people.

“Want to get a drink?”

“I’d love something sweet.”

“I’ve got just the thing. It’s called a Hand Grenade, and it’s a New Orleans specialty.” He began to pull me down the street.

“What’s in it?” I asked.

“It’s a secret, but it’s filled with a bunch of different things. It’s sweet, but it’s strong too.”

A line of people formed near a small window to order a Hand Grenade to go. Kayden ordered one for each of us, and the bartender placed two giant green plastic drink glasses on the counter. The container was made of neon green plastic, and a grenade shape was at the bottom. I had seen many people on the streets carrying them as they walked. Kayden handed me the drink, and my first sip was an explosion of fruity flavor across my palate. I swallowed a few refreshing gulps before taking a breath.

“Slow down a bit. There’s a lot of liquor in the drink,” he stated as I removed the straw from my lips.

“It doesn’t taste like there is any alcohol at all in it,” I said.

“They’re easy to drink and go down smooth. Have you eaten today?” he asked.

“I haven’t had much to eat, and I’m hungry,” I said.

“Let’s get you something before you drink too much more,” he said.

We sat on the stairs of the building next door and people watched while we finished our drinks. A drag queen directed traffic at the busy intersection, and the crowd followed his guidance, although some seemed confused. My legs began to tingle and feel like jelly. I needed to eat before I got drunk.

We crossed the street to Yo Mama’s and entered the dimly lit doorway and went into the intimate dining room.

“There’s an upstairs dining area. Let’s go up there to eat for more privacy,” he said.

The upstairs was furnished with tables and a separate bar area. All of the seats at the bar were empty, and Kayden picked two in the middle for us to sit.

“We can sit closer at the bar.” Kayden pulled out a chair for me, and I collapsed into it. My chair began to move, and my body lurched to the side when it came to an abrupt stop. Kayden had moved my chair close enough to his that our bodies touched.

The bartender arrived a moment later to take our orders. Kayden ordered Jack and Coke, and I followed suit. My body was still vibrating from the nervousness and excitement of earlier in the day, and I thought one more drink would help calm me.

“Want to split a burger?” I asked Kayden. I didn’t want to overeat, but I was starving.

“Sure, how about a burger and salad?”

“That would be fantastic. I’ll eat any type of burger,” I told him as I stroked his arm.

“It won’t taste as good as you did. I can’t get the memory of your taste out of my mind. I need another one.”

“Later, Kayden,” I said with a twinkle in my eye.

“Later? I want one now,” he said as his hand moved up my thigh.

I flinched when his hand reached my shorts. He reached a finger inside my panties and found my wetness. He left it there for a moment while I looked around the restaurant to see who was near. No one seemed to be paying attention to us, but my heart began to pound. He removed his finger from my panties, bringing it to his lips. Smiling, he placed his finger in his mouth and sucked on it with closed eyes.

“Kiss me.”

“What?” I asked.

He reached over and grabbed my neck to pull me close enough to kiss me. “I want you to taste yourself on my lips. I want you to know how sweet and delicious you are.”

He kissed me deeply and passionately. I could taste myself on his lips and tongue. It was intertwined with his intoxicating taste that I craved more than any food. After a moment, he released me, and I sat there like a fool—unable to move.

I averted my attention from Kayden in order to gather my thoughts while he ordered our meal. I had never acted like this—public displays of affection weren’t in my character. I clutched the cold drink and swirled the straw with my tongue. I had never felt such electricity with anyone like I felt with him.

“I’m dying to take you into the bathroom and fuck you right here. I won’t, though. The first time needs to be intimate and last longer than a quickie against the bathroom wall,” Kayden said in my ear in a slow, even tone. His words held promise of sexual pleasure like I had never experienced before.

I pretended to pout, although I could have never gone through with it. I had never had sex in a public place in my life, and the idea of it scared the shit out of me. Kayden made me want to do things outside of my norm. I wanted excitement, but would I be willing to do all it entailed? I didn’t want a quick fuck in a bathroom either. I wanted it to be slow, so I could savor him.

We barely spoke while waiting for our dinner. We kissed and touched each other, and I couldn’t keep my eyes off of him. I was drawn to his free spirit, and he oozed sexuality. His face was beautiful, and I couldn’t stop gazing into his eyes. The food finally arrived, and we removed our hands from each other only to eat.

Kayden ordered another drink for each of us, and my stomach began to turn. The sweetness of the Jack and Coke wasn’t harmonizing with all the other contents. I didn’t complain even though I knew I would pay for it tomorrow. Kayden seemed unfazed by the alcohol coursing through his veins, unlike my jelly legs, hazy thoughts, and squinted eyes.

My stomach filled quickly due to the liquid floating inside. I watched him finish the burger and lick his fingers. His hands were large, and his fingers were thick. His lips were full and engulfed his fingers one by one. My thoughts were riveted by his motions, and I jumped when his hand trailed up the inside of my thigh. The people around us disappeared from my vision, and I was overcome with lust. The bartender was on her phone facing away from us, and he was driving me wild.

Kayden threw a fifty on the bar top and stood up. I followed suit a moment later. My body swayed from the change in altitude.

“Steady,” he said as his arms wrapped around my torso.

I giggled as he helped me down the stairs. The air in the French Quarter had become stale from the throngs of people. The sun had set while we’d enjoyed our meal, and the street was illuminated by neon signs.

“I could use a cup of coffee,” I said.

We approached Café Du Monde, and a heavenly scent filled my nose, causing my mouth to water. The white building was decorated with a large green canopy to protect diners from the elements. The line stretched down the sidewalk, and we found a spot in the back. Kayden wrapped his arms around me and held me as we waited. His lips brushed against my ear as I stared at the stars twinkling above. I watched him place the order for me. I studied him: his smile, his body, and his joy. He radiated sexiness, and I wanted more of him, of it.

I sipped my coffee and swirled it around on my tongue. The taste was different than my normal brew, smoother and less bitter. We walked around the city until our coffee was finished and fatigue enveloped us. An illuminated sign filled my vision—The Funky Pirate.

“Would you like to sit down for a while?” he asked.

“Please.”

The funky jazz music filled the air along with the stench of nicotine. Kayden held my hand as he walked through the bar and opened a set of wooden-slatted double doors. On the other side was a majestic courtyard. The courtyard was surrounded by brick walls lined with climbing vines entwined with beautiful white flowers. The ground was covered in bricks, tropical shrubs, and flowers. Lights twinkled above, held by a string, and they created a romantic atmosphere. The courtyard was empty, but the music flowed throughout.

Kayden ordered a round of drinks to cool us down after the long walk, and I didn’t know if I could keep up with his ability to consume liquor. I put my legs over his, and he stroked my knee and thighs. We were alone, other than a trickle of people walking back and forth. It was romantic and sexy, but the alcohol was overcoming my ability to stay awake. I needed to sleep, and I wanted to be truly alone with Kayden. We walked toward the streetcar, and my legs wobbled as I walked. Kayden kept a firm grasp on my shoulder to help steady me.

The streetcar was standing room only. Kayden gripped the bar above his head with one hand and wrapped his arm around me with the other.

“Lean against me,” he whispered in my ear.

I obeyed his request. I wouldn’t have been able to stay upright without his help. The interior was dark, and murmurs filled the air. The trip went by in a blur, and I slipped on the step on the way out of the streetcar.

“Up we go,” he said as he scooped me into his arms and carried me to his truck.

He propped me against the side of the truck, steadying me with one arm, while unlocking the door. He helped me inside and made sure I didn’t hit my head by using his hand as a barrier. My eyes closed at the comfort of being seated in a quiet, dark place. It was so tranquil, and my body was so relaxed. The darkness consumed me.

“Sophia, we’re back,” he said as he touched my cheek to rouse me from my slumber.

“No,” I said as I swatted his hand away.

“Come on, baby doll.”

He opened my door and hoisted me into his arms. I wrapped my arms around his strong, lean shoulders and nuzzled my face into his neck. I inhaled deeply and almost tasted his scent. I could get lost in his scent and touch.

After he placed me on the bed, Kayden began to remove my sandals. I had been floating on a cloud until that moment. My mind snapped back into reality, and the brief sleep helped me regain my clarity. My eyes shot open, and all I could do was watch him undress me. The room was illuminated by candlelight, and the flickers danced on the walls.

“Is it okay that I’m doing this, Sophia?” Kayden asked, momentarily stopping all movement.

“It’s perfect. Don’t stop,” I said with a giggle.

“Everything?” he asked, giving me a second chance to back out.

“Everything,” I said firmly.

Kayden began to remove his shirt, and I watched in wonderment. I hadn’t seen him without his clothes until that moment. His torso was long, lean, and covered in a smattering of dark hair. My eyes drifted from his chest to his taut abs and froze. He was unbuttoning his shorts, and I was riveted. He removed them slowly, and his cock sprang free as the shorts drifted to his feet.

“You’re on the pill, right, baby?” he asked.

I swallowed hard, “Yes, and my last checkup was clean.”

“Mine too. I was tested last month and hadn’t been with anyone weeks before that,” he said, crawling into bed.

A lump formed in my throat and my palms began to sweat. My heart was pounding so ferociously in my chest that it had to be audible. He threw my tank top off to the side, and it crumpled on the floor. I arched my back to give him access to unhook my bra, and it quickly followed the same path.

His lips trailed a path down my center to my shorts, and he paused. He glanced at me, asking for permission. I granted it with a smile. He undid the button with his teeth but kept his eyes glued to mine. He sat up on his knees and slowly shimmied them down my legs. Once my shorts were removed, I placed my legs wide enough for his body to fit snugly between. He climbed up my body and began to kiss me passionately as our hands explored each other’s bodies. His skin was soft and warm, and I ran my fingertips over his back as he kissed me deeply, and we nibbled on each other’s lips. His lips were full and smooth—and I couldn’t get enough of them. I wanted to devour him.

The night had been filled with teasing and foreplay, and my pussy wept for him. He slid his fingers over my opening to check my readiness.

“I want to feel you, Sophia, skin against skin,” he said in my ear.

“Yes,” I moaned.

He stroked the head of his cock over my wetness. We had teased, kissed, and touched so much over the last seven hours that I was aching for him. I thought I was ready for him, but when he began to slide inside of me, I felt my body stretch painfully to adapt to the fullness. His cock impaled me, and I bit his shoulder to stop myself from crying out. His hips rocked slowly back and forth.

“You feel so fucking good,” he said as he fully nestled his cock inside me.

I moaned in his ear as he withdrew his cock and slammed it back into my body. My back arched, and I was sore from the intrusion. I wrapped my legs around his back and hooked my feet together. The thrusts turned relentless and never-ending. My body was humming from the sensation of his cock moving inside of me. My body tensed, and he began to pick up speed. He pumped faster and harder until my body came undone. Flashes of light filled my eyes as my breath left me. I held his shoulder, unable to form a sound. The ripples of pleasure filled my world, and everything else ceased to exist. My body grew limp under his, and he tensed, his rhythm growing erratic. His breathing changed, and his eyes closed. I watched his face in wonder as he savored the same ecstasy that had filled my very being moments earlier.

No one had ever made love to me in the way Kayden had. My world had been altered permanently, and I knew that every man before him was a mediocre lover. He had ruined me for all other men.

He rested his forehead against mine and caught his breath. His lips swept across mine in a tender, loving gesture. His body fell to my side, and he put his arm above his head.

“I want to hold you,” he said.

I immediately moved my body into the crook of his arm and wrapped my legs around his. I rested my arm on his chest and splayed my fingers in his goatee. I played with the hair on his face until I drifted into a peaceful sleep.

My stomach was doing flips, and my eyes popped open. The alcohol I consumed last night had made me queasy. I couldn’t get comfortable. It was early, and we’d only slept a couple of hours. He opened his eyes and looked at me. I prayed he didn’t regret anything and that he would still be the sweet man he had been the night before.

“Are you okay?” Kayden asked.

“I don’t feel well. I don’t usually drink so much. My stomach feels sick.”

“What can I get you?” he asked me with a sympathetic look in his eyes.

I wasn’t sure how to respond. I knew I needed something to help quell my stomach, but I was exhausted and wouldn’t be able to sleep feeling like this.

“Maybe something to help my stomach feel better.”

“Let me go see what we have. I know we have to have something around here,” he said, stroking my face.

I watched as he crawled out of bed and headed for the door. His body was beautiful, and I still couldn’t believe that I had sex with such a beautiful man. His ass was amazing—perfectly shaped and smooth. I didn’t want to take my eyes off of him.

“Here, Soph, I found some medicine and some aspirin, so you don’t end up with a headache,” he said as he sat next to me on the bed, holding a glass of water and the pills.

I gulped it down, and he put the glass on the nightstand and crawled back under the covers with me. He grabbed me and pulled me close. I wrapped my body around him and curled up to drift back to sleep.

“I don’t want to freak you out, but can I ask you something?”

Panicked, I put my hand over his mouth and said, “No.”

What the hell was he going to ask me? I didn’t know if I wanted to hear it.

My eyes were glued to him, and my hand remained over his mouth. I remained frozen for a moment until he began to laugh against my palm. I spread my fingers just enough to allow sound to pass through.

“Will you be my girlfriend, Sophia?”

Was this a joke? My mind went blank. Words escaped me.

“Your messages captured my heart, and I fell for you before I ever touched you. I didn’t want to open my heart to anyone, but you, you seeped into my veins, bringing new meaning to my life. Being with you in person only made my feelings deeper for you, sealing my fate,” he said. “I want you to be mine. I will not share you with anyone.”

“Yes, Kayden,” I said. His words stole my breath and warmed my body.

Contentment overcame me, and I drifted back to sleep tucked into his arms. I woke to the sound of rain thumping against the window panes. Kayden was sitting on the edge of the bed rubbing his eyes.

“I’ll be right back,” Kayden said to me as he picked up his shorts off the floor.

“I’m not going anywhere,” I said to him as I sprawled out on his bed.

I heard the water turn on in the bathroom. I waited for him to return. I was too tired to do anything anyway. I heard noises coming from the kitchen as he moved around the apartment.

“Come on, baby doll. I ran a bath for us,” he said to me as he pulled back the covers to reveal my flesh, his hands outstretched toward me.

I grabbed his hands and let him pull me out of bed. I followed behind him as he guided us to the bathroom. When I entered the bathroom, he had not only made a bubble bath but had candles flickering everywhere. It was romantic. No one had ever done anything like that for me before. I stopped in the doorway.

“What’s wrong?” Kayden asked.

“You did this for me?” I asked, still in shock.

“Yes, for us. You don’t like it?” he asked, concerned.

“Oh, I love it. No one has ever made a bath for me. It’s sweet,” I told him. I could feel my eyes filling with water.

“Well, get used to it. I want to take care of you. You deserve this, Sophia,” he said to me as he pulled me toward the bathtub.

He stepped into the bathtub first, and I followed behind him. He sat down and helped me situate myself to be comfortable. I leaned against his body and felt totally and utterly happy.

“I know you don’t feel well today, so no sex. This isn’t just about sex for me,” he said to me.

“No?”

“Well, not now, at least. I just want to lie here and enjoy being with you. Just relax.” He ran his fingertips up and down my arms.

I relished and craved his touch. I leaned back, rested my head on his shoulder, and closed my eyes.

“I needed this. It’s so relaxing,” I said to him in a hushed tone.

“I am going to pamper you today and always, Sophia,” he whispered next to my ear.

I was so relaxed I could barely speak. He continued to touch my skin softly and trickle water all over my body.

“I haven’t been this happy in forever,” Kayden said to me.

“You make me feel special—different—Kayden.”

“You are. I’ve never known anyone like you. You make me look forward to each day, and I want you to feel the same,” he said to me.

“I thought you didn’t want another relationship?”

“I thought I was through with love, but that was before I met you. I can’t imagine you not being in my life. I want you to be only mine,” he told me while stroking my cheek.

“I’m glad I could open your heart again,” I said to him as I stroked his legs.

I rested my head against his body and let the tranquility overcome me. He caressed and washed my entire body with a peach-scented soap. My senses were overwhelmed.

“Are you hungry?”

“A little bit. My stomach feels almost normal again,” I replied while rubbing a hand over my belly.

“I’m going to make us something to eat. I want you to rest in bed while I cook,” he said to me before kissing the back of my head.

Kayden helped me out of the bath and grabbed a towel. He slowly and methodically dried off my body, and my heart melted. He was so kind and gentle. After he was done, I walked back into the bedroom and crawled into bed. Kayden entered the room right after me and tucked me in like my father used to do when I was a kid.

“Rest a while. I’ll be back in a bit to check on you.” He kissed me on the lips. I watched as he disappeared into the hallway, and I closed my eyes and thought about Kayden.

“Sophia. Wake up, sleepyhead.” I heard Kayden whispering while touching my face.

“I’m awake. Now.”

“I’m making chicken soup, and it’s simmering on the stove. I thought I would come pamper you a little more,” he said to me as I sat up in the bed. “Can I brush your hair for you?”

“Really? You want to brush my hair?” I replied with wide eyes and a dopey grin.

“Yes, I love your hair,” he stated matter-of-factly, walking toward my brush on the dresser.

“Knock yourself out,” I said.

“Come here and sit in front of me,” he said as he crawled onto the bed and patted a spot in front of him.

I did as I was told and sat in front of him. My hair was long and thick, and I hated brushing the tangled mess. He worked through each section of hair methodically and took his time. He made sure not to pull too hard or snag my hair. I sat there and reveled in the feeling of being pampered by him.

“All done,” he said all too soon as he handed me the brush.

“Thank you. That was so relaxing. I’ve never had anyone, besides my mother, brush my hair,” I said as I turned to face him.

“I’ll do it for you, always,” he said as he kissed me on the lips. I wanted to believe what he said was true. “I have to go check on the soup.”

“I’m sure it’s warm by now,” I said, not wanting him to leave.

“Silly girl. I’m not reheating something from a can. I made it from scratch while you were sleeping,” he said, shaking his head in disbelief.

“You made me homemade chicken noodle soup?” I asked, still not believing he took the time and care in feeding me.

“I never eat soup from a can, gross. Stay here while I go check on it, and if it’s ready, I’ll bring you a bowl,” he told me as he stood up.

I didn’t want this dream to end. Was I still asleep? Did this man really draw me a bath, brush my hair, and make me homemade soup?

He walked back into the room with two mugs brimming with steaming liquid. The smell wafted from the doorway and reminded me of home. We stayed barricaded inside his room all day watching movies, snuggling, and enjoying his homemade soup.

Light filtered through my eyelids and woke me from my sleep. Hot. My body felt like I was sleeping next to a fire, but it was Kayden’s naked body. I scooted away slowly just far enough to escape his heat. He was still fast asleep, and from my new position, I could watch him sleep. He slept peacefully, barely making a sound. He had a shadow on his face from his beard growing in, and his hand was tucked under his cheek. He looked almost childlike, unlike the wild sexual animal I knew was brewing under his cool façade.

His eyes fluttered open, and I quickly shut my eyes. I didn’t want him to know I had been staring.

“Good morning, beautiful. I saw you looking at me,” he said.

Busted. “I didn’t want you to think I was a weirdo,” I said as I opened my eyes and smiled at him.

“I already know you’re a freak in the sheets. Why not add creepy sleep watcher to your resume,” he laughed.

“I’m not creepy,” I said as I smacked him playfully on his shoulder.

“What do you want to do today?” he asked while reaching out to move the hair away from my face.

“Can we go to the cemetery near the streetcar line and walk around?” I asked.

“That’s different. I don’t think I’ve ever been there with anyone before,” he responded.

We left the apartment and headed to the cemetery. It was a hot day, and the air was thick with humidity. The sky was lined with puffy white clouds, and it looked like it might rain. The cemetery was empty—we had it all to ourselves. Kayden held my hand as we walked to the gravesites.

The gravesites weren’t the typical headstones I was accustomed to. Small markers packed together row upon row, but they were unique buildings made of various types of stone. They were decorated with statues, stained glass, and iron gates. Multiple generations were buried inside the crypt-like structures. We peered through windows and entered the buildings that were open. While we were talking, the rain began to fall, but the sun continued to shine.

“Let’s sit down for a bit and get out of the rain,” I said to him while pulling on his hand toward a building under a tree.

It was a beautiful building that was white with a green tinge around the edges. It was under a massive oak tree, and we found shelter from the rain. We sat on the steps with our knees touching, and he placed an arm around my shoulder.

“This place is beautiful,” I said, noticing him watching me out of the corner of my eye.

“So are you, Sophia,” he said as he brushed a piece of damp hair off my neck.

Goose bumps formed on my skin despite the steam rising from the concrete. He traced a line from the little strands of hair to my knee in one fluid move. My insides liquefied under his fingertips as I closed my eyes and exhaled slowly, trying to maintain my sanity.

The tranquility and beauty were awe-inspiring as the rain bounced off the leaves and formed puddles on the ground.

“It’s strange that there’s so much beauty in a place that is filled with sadness,” he said to me as he stroked the back of my hand with his fingertips.

“It’s so unlike anything we have back home,” I said, trying to avert my eyes from him. The man still made me nervous in the most delightful way.

When the rain slowed, it became steamy outside—the rain never seemed to help cool down the air in the South. It only made it unbearable to breathe. Sweat began to trickle down my temples. The staleness of the air made it impossible to enjoy the serenity and beauty.

“Want to go back and cool off? I know I could use a shower before we go out tonight,” he asked with a smile promising sin.

I gulped loud enough that I knew he had to hear, but he didn’t let on if he did. Kayden climbed off the step slowly and held out his hand to me. I stood slowly while holding his hand and stared into his eyes. I tripped as I began to walk, and my heart plummeted as my face landed against his chest. Kayden reached out and caught me in his arms. I opened an eye and tried to catch a glimpse of his face as he pulled me away. I smiled as my cheeks began to heat, and I could feel the embarrassment spread throughout my body. Kayden smiled at me and grabbed my face lightly.

“We all fall sometimes in life, Sophia. It’s more important how we recover,” he said as he lips touched mine.

His thumbs stroked my cheeks while his fingers gripped the back of my neck. His kiss delved deeper as his tongue searched for mine. He possessed me. My mouth had grown dry from the heat, and his mouth refreshed me like an oasis in the desert. My body began to tremble with need. Emptiness filled me when his lips broke from mine.

“Let’s go. I have plans for you, baby doll,” he said with a wink.

* * *

My body hummed. Bourbon Street had led to another evening of excess. My legs wobbled as I walked down the streetcar steps. Kayden grabbed me by the waist as soon as my feet touched the street. I giggled as I tried to walk upright without swerving. My body didn’t want to listen to my mind. Kayden placed my arm around his neck and kept a firm hold on me until we approached my SUV. Kayden opened the back door, and I stood there confused for a moment.

“In the back, Sophia. Now!” he said firmly while holding the door open for me.

I looked around, and only a trickle of people moved around on the streets at this hour.

He helped me as I climbed into the back, trying to avoid smacking my forehead on the door frame. The windows were tinted and gave us privacy. Kayden sat down and helped me place my body over his. My dress allowed him easy access as he pulled my panties to the side. A sheen of sweat began to form on my skin because the car was hot and the air inside stuffy. He unzipped his pants and guided his cock to my throbbing wet pussy. We had spent all night on Bourbon Street kissing and stroking each other—I wanted him.

I looked through the car windows on all sides and didn’t see anyone. He rammed his cock inside of me, and all thought vanished. I no longer worried about the people on the street. We didn’t make love—we had feverish sex in the back seat of my car. The only sound was our skin slapping against each other, our lips and tongues moving together, and our breaths fast and harsh.

I collapsed on top of him, exhaustion overwhelming me. We were breathing heavily, but he remained deep inside of me. He grabbed my thighs and held my body above his. He began to pump while holding my body in place. He increased speed and bit my neck, lost in passion. I cried out from the pleasure and pain. He invaded my entire being. My eyes rolled back in my head from the sensation of his cock thrusting in and out of me.

His thrusts began to slow until all movement stopped. Neither one of us climaxed, but I knew he was far from done for the night. I rested my forehead against his and tried to catch my breath. “Do you think anyone saw us?” I asked.

“I’m sure they saw the car rocking.”

“What? The car wasn’t moving,” I replied in disbelief. I was horrified that someone might have seen the car moving.

“Oh, yes, it was. Someone had to see it moving if they were walking by,” Kayden said with a sly grin and a hint of amusement in his voice. Holy shit. I had never been so reckless in all my life. Sex had always been in private. I worried too much about my career. Kayden had wiped all sanity from my mind and replaced it with only carnal intent.